First movie, music during ASD weekend

The annual music and movies in the park will begin alongside the ending events of All School’s Day.

By Joseph TuszynskiStaff Writer

The annual music and movies in the park will begin alongside the ending events of All School’s Day.

All shows are free and open to the public, and families are encouraged to bring their children this year.

The first movie in the park will be “Toy Story 3,” and will be shown at dusk on May 11.

This is the fifth year for Movies in the Park. Anne Hassler, director for the McPherson Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, said she enjoys seeing families come out for the movies.

“Sometimes, the parents pull their kids in wagons, and the kids wear pajamas,” she said. “We’re grateful for the community’s support and hope to continue showing movies every summer.”

Each movie is sponsored by different businesses or individuals in McPherson.

The first concert of the summer will start with King Midas, who will perform at dusk (between 8 and 9 p.m.) May 10 at Lakeside Park.

The band began in McPherson in 1965 and specializes in classic rock from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. Carla Barber, executive director of the McPherson Museum and Arts Foundation, which hosts the Summer Music Series, said King Midas has long been a McPherson favorite.

“We couldn’t even count everyone that was there last year,” she said, referencing their performance in last year’s Summer Music Series. “It was well over 500.”

Other bands this year include Sunflower Colonels on May 31, Mary Jane Furches on June 7, Robin Macy and the Cherokee Maidens on June 21, Jay Huber & Friends on July 5 and Tyler Gregory on July 19.

Other movies this year include “Kindergarten Cop” on June 1, “The Lorax” on July 6, “Babe” on Aug. 3, “Up” on Sept. 7 and “Brave” on Sept. 27.

Attendees are asked to bring blankets or lawn chairs, bug repellent and food. Some concessions will be available during the movies and music.

In case of rain, Park After Dark will take place in the McPherson Community Building, 122 E. Marlin St. For more information on Movies in the Park, contact Hassler at 620-241-3340. For more information on the Summer Music Series, contact Barber at 620-241-8464.